TransLink’s 2030 plan boosts transit priority safety and digital tools

TransLink Unveils Five-Year Customer Experience Action Plan

Public transit in Metro Vancouver is set for improvements. TransLink announced a new five-year plan this week. The plan extends through 2030 and aims to enhance the passenger experience across its network.

Details of the Customer Experience Action Plan

Launching this year, the Customer Experience Action Plan includes about three dozen projects. It focuses on making public transit more reliable, easier to use, safer, and more comfortable. The plan prioritizes travel time, safety, and rider needs.

Continuing Initiatives

Several initiatives are already in progress. New public washrooms will be added at key SkyTrain stations and transit hubs. The first new washroom will open in 2025 at Metrotown Station.

The plan also continues to roll out passenger amenities. These include vending machines, battery lockers, and device-charging stations at SkyTrain stations and bus exchanges.

Cleanliness and Reporting

TransLink will expand its cleanliness efforts. The cleaning and maintenance reporting hotline will be available at more SkyTrain stations and bus loops. This will allow riders to report issues directly for quicker responses.

Upgrades to Communication Systems

Passenger communications will see upgrades. Improvements will be made to digital alerts, web platforms, and trip-planning apps. New technology will support accurate real-time transit predictions and service alerts.

Focus on Safety and Security

Safety and security are key focuses of the plan. Initiatives include increased visibility of Transit Security and Transit Police. There will be enhanced safety campaigns and audits at SkyTrain stations.

Operational Improvements

New procedures will help TransLink respond to major events and service disruptions. Monitoring technology will track bus conditions to reduce delays from breakdowns.

Bus Service Enhancements

Bus service will improve operating speeds and reliability. A study in 2026-2027 will explore effective technologies for transit signal priority at intersections.

Notable New Initiatives

The refurbishment of Canada Line trains is a notable new initiative. These upgrades will extend the trains’ lifespan and improve ride quality.

Refurbishments are also underway for West Coast Express locomotives and passenger cars. SeaBus terminals will receive upgrades for better passenger flow and comfort.

Ongoing Projects

Many items in the action plan are tied to larger projects. These include SkyTrain extensions, Bus Rapid Transit lines, and general bus service expansion.

Compass Fare Payment System Overhaul

TransLink plans a major overhaul of the Compass fare payment system. This includes new fare gates and expanded payment options. The upgrade is expected to cost over $500 million.

New SkyTrain Control Centre

Construction continues on a new $330-million SkyTrain control centre. It is located next to the Edmonds operations facility and will improve reliability on the Expo and Millennium lines. The control centre is scheduled for completion in 2026.